Rhee's letter to parents on resignation

D.C. Schools Chancellor Michelle A. Rhee sent a letter about her resignation to parents by e-mail Wednesday. Here it is:

October 13, 2010

Dear DCPS Parents and Community,

Today Chairman Gray and I have reached the mutual decision that I will leave my post as Chancellor of the DC Public School System.

This is not a decision we made lightly. But it is one that I believe is essential to allow Chairman Gray to pursue our shared goal of uniting this city behind the school reforms that are making a difference in the lives of our children. In short, we have agreed - together - that the best way to keep the reforms going is for me to step aside so that he may appoint a schools chancellor who shares his vision and can keep the progress going.

Kaya Henderson, currently deputy chancellor, has been named Acting Chancellor. This decision by Chairman Gray should put to rest any question of whether reform will continue under the Gray administration. Chairman Gray is committed to continued and uninterrupted reform.

Thank you to each of you. You've emailed me, you've called me, you've come to the coffees and the office hours, you've never been shy about telling me when you disagreed with me, and because of you, we are bringing change into every corner of this city.

I have confidence in this reform's continued success because I know you - our valued partners - will continue to play a critical role in creating a world class educational system for our students.

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